Antonio 'Tony' U. Paterno

BESSEMER, Mich. - Antonio "Tony" U. Paterno, 72, of 1305 W. Lead St. Bessemer, passed away in his home after succumbing to a courageous battle against cancer.

Tony was born Jan. 30, 1948, in Asiago, Italy, to the late Tarcisio and Olga (Gheller) Paterno. At the age of four, Tony and his family moved to Wonthanggi, Victoria, Australia, where he completed school. In 1972, Tony moved to Ironwood, Michigan, and began working at Big Powderhorn Mountain where he was the assistant general manager under the late Louis Gheller.

Tony was previously married to Anne (Mabilia) Paterno; and together they had two children, Tracy (Paterno) Reiter and Linton Paterno. Tony then married Susan (Halberg) Paterno on Feb. 14, 1987. Together they had their daughter, Stephanie Paterno. They remained together until Susan's passing on June 5, 2010.

Tony became the general manager of Big Powderhorn Mountain in 1995. He had a passion for working at the ski hill and providing skiers with a unique and special experience. He had a way of making all who visited the ski hill feel special, knowing all the regulars by name. In 2010 Tony retired from Big Powderhorn Mountain.

Tony was an avid hunter and enjoyed anything involving the outdoors, and being with his beloved dogs. He was known as "Mr. Fix It" and was often called by many when needing advice or help to complete tasks or construction around the house. Tony loved listening to music with his favorite being Elvis Presley. Tony was unbelievably proud of his three children and family. He will be remembered for his larger than life personality and for being able to live his life to the fullest.

Surviving are Tony's three children, Tracy (Sven) Reiter, Linton Paterno and Stephanie Paterno; grandson, Cody Barbari; granddaughter, Biancca Reiter; brother, John (Cheryl) Paterno; sister, Liana (Michael) Saari; brothers-in-law, Jim (Teresa) Halberg, Dan (Debbie) Halberg, Roger (Adele) Halberg, Randy (Tina) Halberg, and Darwin Daane; sisters-in-law, Daine (George) Monti, Sandy Johnson, Julie Colman, Joanne Halberg, and Linda (Tim) McElrone; along with numerous cousins, nieces and nephews, and a host of friends.

Tony was preceded in death by his parents, Tarcisio and Olga; his wife, Susan; father- and mother-in-law, Clarence and Ruth Halberg; uncles, Louis Gheller and Ilario Omizzolo; aunt, Emelia Gheller; special brother-in-law, Keith Johnson, and brother-in-law, Howie Halberg; sister-in-law, Karen Daane; nephew, Tim Johnson; and cousin, Dino Omizzolo.

Out of respect for Tony's wishes cremation has taken place. Due to COVID-19 a formal celebration of life will be held at a later date.

The family has chosen McKevitt-Patrick Funeral Home, Ironwood, to honor Tony's legacy of life. You can leave a condolence or a tribute on mckevittpatrickfuneralhome.com.